Indigenous and Non-Indigenous Voices Unite at ‘Music for the People - A Cultural Experience'

Organizers see Record Attendance at 4th Annual Event

Kamloops, B.C. — On September 7, 2025, ‘Music for the People - A Cultural Experience’, welcomed over 1,550 attendees to the Tk'emlúps te Secwépemc Powwow Arbour for a powerful evening of unity, music, and reconciliation. The award-winning concert event, celebrating its fourth anniversary, brought together Indigenous and non-Indigenous voices, honouring the legacy of its co-founder Rod “Little Sky” Bandura through the presentation of an Indigenous Music Scholarship.

“I am always so amazed by the generosity of this community and how much they enjoy this event. Thank you to everyone who came to Music for the People this year as we also honoured Rod’s memory through music,” shared Margit Bandura. “Rod believed music could heal generations. Every note played tonight was a testament to that vision, and I am inspired to keep his spirit alive through this event for years to come. This year, a song was also dedicated to Johnny Bandura, Rod’s son, who passed away this summer.”

The night began with a unique Japanese drumming performance by Raiden Taiko, drawing the crowd into the Powwow Arbour. The performances by Velvet Groove with Jeremy Kneeshaw, Darrin Cherewayko, and Kris Ruston, alongside renowned musicians Henry Small, Scott Skulmoski, and Margit Bandura, blended seamlessly with the melodies of the Kamloops Symphony and the rhythmic beats and captivating dances of the Sage Hills Singers, Drummers, and Dancers. The evening was an unforgettable experience that deeply resonated with the community.

Photos: (Top) Right: Music for the People at the Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc Powwow Arbour; Left: Dancer from Sage Hills, with Jeremy Kneeshaw and Margit Bandura singing together. (Bottom) Left: Velvet Groove with Jeremy Kneeshaaw, Darrin Cherewayko and Kris Ruston, performing at Music for the People; Right: Sage Hills Singers and Drummers. Photo Credits: Mary Putnam.

Attendees also experienced a rich cultural showcase featuring Indigenous crafts, artwork, and traditional foods from the K̓wséltkten Farmers’ & Artisan Market, adding another layer of authentic cultural connection to the event.

“Having the K̓wséltkten Farmers’ & Artisan Market at the Powwow Arbour was a great reminder of the importance of creating spaces where cultures can meet and stories can be shared. This is what reconciliation looks like, and we’re proud to be part of that ongoing journey,” added Margit.

The night culminated with the first-ever presentation of the Rod Littlesky Bandura Music Scholarship, created to uplift Indigenous Peoples with a passion for music. Cash Charters will receive a guitar and a full year of music lessons from Long & McQuade, continuing Rod’s legacy of nurturing Indigenous musical talent.

Margit also extended heartfelt appreciation to the sponsors, volunteers, and community members who brought the vision to life.

“Thank you again to Kelson Group for their invaluable support as the presenting sponsor, and to all other businesses and individuals that came together to make this celebration accessible to all,” she said.

For a glimpse into the event, follow us on our Facebook page or visit our website.

For an interview with Margit Bandura, contact:  

Valeria Molina, Communications Liaison | valeria@amplifyinc.ca

About Music For The People – A Cultural Experience 

Music For the People is a unique concert event bringing the voices, music, and artistry of Indigenous and non-Indigenous people together for an unforgettable evening. The concert brings culture, music, artists, and communities together and is suitable for all ages. www.musicforthepeople.ca